Haggard had recently canceled his April tour dates to focus on his health. The musician had twice been hospitalized for pneumonia, once in December and a second time earlier in March.

Haggard recorded more than 90 albums, and placed 112 titles on the country charts, scored 71 top-10 hits and had 38 No. 1 songs (via Music Row). His hits include the country classics “Mama Tried,” “Okie From Muskogee,” “Today I Started Loving You Again,” and many many more.

Ben Haggard, Merle’s son shared the following statement via his official Facebook page:

A week ago dad told us he was gonna pass on his birthday, and he wasn’t wrong. A hour ago he took his last breath surrounded by family and friends. He loved everything about life and he loved that everyone of you gave him a chance with his music. He wasn’t just a country singer.. He was the best country singer that ever lived.